Masters Journal V1.0

Portfolio: Studio Introduction

2007-10-21T18:00:00.001-07:00

Brief: The first semester studio assignment was to design an Apple store that reflected the typical programmatic elements that are inherint in Apple stores (i.e. Genius Bar, Monumental Stair feature, kiosks, etc) as well as implementing a new feature element, unique to our personal experiences/observations of an Apple store in the Boston area. The studio began by physically observing an Apple store, and how people interacted in the space and with the products. Through these observations, we created a conceptual/generator diagram. The initial diagram served as the basis of our concept which was further developed in perspective modeling. By developing the project initially in perspective, it focused us on how people inhabit and perceive space and how it effects certain interaction (i.e. shopping). Following our initial studies, we developed the project into a full scale building - and further developed in perspective as well as traditional architectural drawings (i.e. plan section and elevation).

Portfolio: Concept Statement

2007-10-20T17:20:00.004-07:00

Brief: Observing a typical Apple store and how its consumers interact with its products demonstrated that the typical consumer only superficially interacts with its products. The average consumer walks into the store and played on the internet, either checking their email or the scores to a sports game. The consumer never fully realizes or experiences the ease of navaigating through programs on the computer or the full potential of the software that is included (i.e. iLife, iPhoto, etc). The objective is to create centralized locations where the average consumer and/or professionals may interact with the computer and its software on a more personalized level.

Portfoio: Initial Hardcopy Portfolio

2007-10-20T17:20:00.003-07:00

The images below represent the hardcopy portfolio pages for the first semester studio project. The layout was produced for initial review/critque for the portfolio submission (later changed to an online format). The goal of the layout was to show the progression of the studio project from inception to the evolution into the final building product.
(The layout was included as a means of supplying additional information on how the project was structured and completed.)

Portfolio: Generator Diagram

2007-10-20T17:20:00.001-07:00

The process began by developing a "generator" diagram, a diagram that explores the conceptual statement graphically (see previous posting for concept statement). The diagram depicts units/pods that contain major features/software of the Apple brand located in a central location

-iTunes/Garage Band, iLife, iPhoto, and a misc. area (used for learning/teaching or graphic capabilities).

Portfolio: Intensive Drawings

2007-10-20T17:19:00.004-07:00

The drawings/perspectives below depict the work that was produced at the Boston intensive. The drawings produced was a culmination of the work that began as a study in perspective space and relationships of the consumer within a space. The goal was to create a series of pods that the consumer would inhabit that allowed them to interact with the Apple brand on a more intimate level(either the software or the computer itself). The pods themselves were placed within the central core/atrium so that the consumer shopping was not only able to interact with the product itself, but was seen from the sales floor interacting with the Apple brand.

Portfolio: Site/Roof/Floor Plans

2007-10-20T17:19:00.003-07:00

The floor plans are arranged so that all of the products are contained around the perimeter of the space, allowing for the pods to be located in the central core/artium. The monumental stair is meant to be a medium for the consumer to interact not only with the open space of the atrium but also the pods and the sales floor at the same time. The consumer has the oppurtunity to occupy any of the pods or leave the stair for the sales floor to purchase any of the products offered.

Roof Plan:

Fifth Floor Plan/typical plans:

First Floor Plan:

Portfolio: Section/Details

2007-10-20T17:19:00.001-07:00

The sections show the different relationships throughout the building, the open space of the core/atrium to the spaces/uses of the individual pods to the confined spaces of the thick wall that one must experience prior to entering the pods or the openess of the core/atrium.

Section 1:

Section 2:

Section 3:

Details were produced to help understand the different components of the building and how each relates to the building as a whole.

Details:
Feature Element Connection Detail:

Stair Axon:

Stair Detail:

Portfolio: Elevations

2007-10-20T17:18:00.002-07:00

The intent of the elevations was to keep a very simple facade that would not detract from Copley Square, yet offer the pederstrians a minimal glimpse into the space inside. The pederstrians at the street would be able to catch a shadow of the inhabitants inside shopping or be able to see the consumer travelling on the monumental stair at the front of the building - creating interest with the building itself and the products contained within.

Front Elevation:

Side Elevation:

Portfolio: Model and Perspectives

2007-10-20T17:18:00.001-07:00

Perspectives were produced to simulate the different points of interaction and different views that would be offered to a consumer travelling along the monumental stair.

Final Review Drawings: Thursday

2007-02-13T19:15:00.000-08:00

Brief: The images displayed below represent a progression of the studio work that has been produced since the Boston Intensive, where the program and project were first explored as both a problem and solution. The initial studies began with a diagramatic exploration that evolved into studies in perspective spaces. The images I have chosen represent the progression of how I approached the problem and moved toward an architectural solution.

Image 1: Initial Study Diagram
Annotation: This diagram is in response to one of the observations made at the Apple store; that consumers would only superficially interact with the computers, either checking the latest score of a sports game or to check email. The diagram begins to depict a centralized region that would allow consumers to utilize the specialized applications in a more intimate atmosphere.

Image 2: Perspective Study
Annotation: Throughout the intensive session in Boston, we produced perpspective drawings, exploring spatial relationships and the beginnings of the store architecturally. The image below, begins to show different relationships and organizations for the "feature" element, the spaces where consumers are able to interact with the different products and applications on a more intimate level, while being observed by consumers navigating through the space.

Image 3: Rendered Perspective
Annotation: The rendered perspective (and proceeding perspectives) show the progression from the intial diagrams and perspectives to what is a more formalized layout of the space. The key elements are the "feature" cubes, the "thick" wall, the suspended stair and the central core. The perspectives show the relationship of the cubes within the space and begins to explore materiality. The perspectives also look at how the stairs allow the consumer to continually experiance the central core in different views/experiances.

Image 4: Perspective
Annotation: Further exploration in spatial studies of the cubes and the central core and the vertical circulation (i.e. suspended stair).

Image 5: Perspective
Annotation: Further exploration in spatial studies of the cubes and the central core and the vertical circulation (i.e. suspended stair).

Image 6: First Floor Plan
Annotation: The first floor plan is dedicated to the feature items that Apple would market, such as new products or specials for holidays. It is also the area where the point of sale and Genius Bar would be positioned. The main floor would be very minimal as far as products are concerned, it would serve more as a point of interaction for the consumers and the Apple representatives.

Image 7: Fifth Floor Plan
Annotation: The fifth floor would be dedicated to accessories and applications that would directly reflect the actions/purposes of the cubes. The cubes on this level would be used for the "iLife" application, dedicated to the larger box, since more users would be using this set of applications. The box would be comprised of a maple wood, which is a little warmer and inviting material, and glass, which would create a sense of transparency, allowing others outside the box to visually see the actions inside. The second box would be comprised of a red polymer material, which would signify a design related use (i.e. graphic designers, web designers, architects, etc).

Image 8: Section
Annotation: The section emphasizes the importance of the central space and the interaction of the boxes that are cantilevered off of the concrete walls. The important item to note is the notion that to occupy the "feature" boxes, one must move from the relative openess of the space and occupy the much more enclosed wall to access this space. The one feature that does not show up here (but can be seen on the elevations) is the transluctent curtain wall for the exterior of the building. I think part of the importance of this, is that it creates a sense of curiosity from the outside, seeing shadows that move throughout the floor plates and clearly seeing individuals navigate vertically in the space (from the suspended stairs).

Final Plans, Elevations, Sections and Details

2007-02-13T13:43:00.000-08:00

Final Drawings for the Apple store:

Drawing A: (Roof Plan)

Drawing B: (First Floor Plan)

Drawing C: (Fifth Floor Plan)

Drawing D: (Front Elevation)

Drawing E: (Side Elevation)

Drawing F: (Section 1)

Drawing G: (Section 2)

Drawing H: (Section 3)

Drawing J: (Detail of Cantilevered Boxes)

Drawing K: (Partial Axon of Suspended Stairs)

Drawing L: (Enlarged Detail of Suspended Stair)

Drawing M: (Partial Detail of Curtain Wall)

Progress Drawings for Final Posting

2007-02-08T18:28:00.000-08:00

Here is a set of Progress Drawings for the final posting. Still working out some details on the featured elements and some logistical issues.

First Floor Plan:

Second Floor Plan:

Building Section:

Feature Element Connection Detail:

Stair Axon:

Stair Detail:

Further Exploration in Perspective

2007-02-05T16:45:00.002-08:00

Currently working on studying the "feature" elements as well as the wall in materials. I believe that I would like to use a "heavy" material for the wall element (i.e. concrete of polished stone material). For the cantilevered elements, I believe one will be an all glass box, a second would incorpate glass and wood, the third would be a semi-transparent material, and the fourth would be a material metal (possible cor-ten). I am also exploring the notion of suspending the stairs from the ceiling/roof structure with a heavy duty cable system. By doing this, it would eliminate the need for any structural elements that might disrupt the views to the central core or to the floor plates.

Details/Materials:

Quick Perspective Renderings

2007-02-02T10:32:00.000-08:00

Just a few quick renderings I worked on at lunch exploring the circulation around the perimeter of the floor plates (based on drawings from yesterdays posting).

Updated Drawings

2007-01-31T18:06:00.000-08:00

Updated Drawings (2/1/07):
I have slightly revised my plan and sections. The vertical circulation now runs along the perimeter of the floor plates, allowing the consumer the oppertunity to experience the atrium/courtyard element throughout there travel. Also, to gain entry into the cubes, they must travel through the thick wall, creating a conflicting experience of being in an enclosed space.

Plan:

Section:

Section/Elevation:

Progress (01/31/07):
Plan and section with a perspective of the feature element. Feature element includes a "thick" wall with thresholds punched through it so that the consumer/user is able to navigate around it using stairs (still working on that item) to get to the programmatic elements that are cantilevered off the wall. I am currently thinking that the wall would be composed of either concrete (i.e. similar to Tadao Ando style castings) or a type of steel (cor-ten). The idea would be to have a material that contrasts the floating glass boxes.

Plan:

Section:

Perspective Rendered:

Perspective Line Drawing:

Sketches

2007-01-29T17:33:00.000-08:00

Sketches of sections and plan: detailed drawings to follow

Theory: Interest

2007-01-22T20:06:00.000-08:00

Interest in environment:
-through design (materiality, technology....)
-interest is a result from reading and viewing pics of traditional and modern japanese architecture/architects
-focus for japanese architects is interaction and relationship with the natural environment (exemplified by work of tadao ando).
-man and natural world is continuous, and design and construction are one (ando)
-ando's philosophy: reconnect man to man - man to nature and architecture serves as the intermediary (seen with his use of light, shadow, materiality, and "placement" of buildings within nature).

What can I do?
-research different ways of learning about environment (seminars, classes, leed....)
-focus on self improvement through education, then work on community
(need to have an knowledge and understanding before any true contributions can be made)

Examples of leaders in the Community:
-Blaine Brownell, NBBJ Seattle
+currently a Fulbright scholar studying in Japan
+looking at sustainable materials
+published book "Transmaterial" all about eco-friendly materials
+has a blog journal showcasing materials (link on sidebar of blog)
+educating whole world on his research (his community)
-diller scofdio +renfro
+new typology: agriculture + architecture = agritecture
-for me
+educating in smaller community, build a strong base, then expand outward, they in turn are able to help inform others

Types of Projects:
-housing
-multi-use projects
-retail

Inform Others:
-building relationships with clients
-education through me and others (once knowledge is obtained)
-continual mentorship process for me and others, keep learning

Comments:
rick:
-is this attitude present in your office
-if this is not present, would you look for employment at a firm that embodies these practices
-any local columbus firms active leaders
-develop library of research materials similar to brownell's blog, only keep in your office as you learn, others can also. this could develop relationships with others that are interested also
-as you gain responsibility in career, implement the green ideals that you learn about
-word of caution or self examination, be sure if this is something you are passionate about. green is popular and the latest "buzz" word. others may view you with skepticism if passion and belief is not obvious
tim:
-call blaine brownell, ask him how we can influence the community and environment, through school, projects or speaking events
-become example to be followed (lead by example)
-URS and NBBJ both have resources for help
carli:
-frank lloyd wright, cheesy, but he integrated land into his buildings better then anyone else
-ds+r is a good example, also dutch housing on water that can rise and fall with the tide - actually most dutch architects are fairly good examples of this:
+Boreno Sporenburg
+Pueblo Housing

Diller Scofido + Renfro ICA Museum

2007-01-22T19:44:00.000-08:00

The ICA Museum which was designed by Diller Scofido + Renfro was recently opened and we were able to take a visit to check it out. The museum itself is very interesting with the surfaces folding and creating a continous plane on the outside, however this wrapping surface didnt really show in the interior (in the spaces I did see). Also something that was very unfortunate was the overall detailing of the project. There were many areas where there seemed to be a lack of thought in the design, such as sprinkler risers being visible around corners, the structure creating a shadow on the "skrim" in the upper galleries, moisture/condensation issues throughout and a computer lab in the coolest space of all ???? Overall though, it is a very interesting building, just hope it doesnt turn into another Wexner Center.... On the brightside, Renfro is one freaking hilarious speaker.
As for the art galleries, they had some cool exhibits, my personal favorite was an installation done by James Turrell (exploiting optical illusions).

on a side bar for chris and kyle:

Studio: Pinup of Final Work

2007-01-22T19:17:00.000-08:00

A quick recap of the comments:

Crit Comments:
-Project resembles the notion of a computer as a metaphor
-Center Space as both orientation and gathering space
-courtyard
-Shapes within the courtyard, do they need to be cubes?
-Explore how to code the spaces and define what they are
-Look at Copley Square, how is the public space here different then the others
Peer Comments:
-How does the roof begin to address the sky
-Are many cubes better then a few - does this become too chaotic
-Address the ground level

Areas to explore this week:
-The comment that was most interesting and the one that I would like to explore is the issue of the project being a metaphor for a computer, and how does this effect the spaces inside, does this strengthen the case for center being voided and having objects placed in the center.

-Also, exploring how this public space becomes different then the others?
-Are cubes really necessary, or can they be open spaces within the void and simplifiying the space-less chaos help strengthen the ideas?
-How does the roof and sky meet?
-How does this relate to Copley Square, shift the floor plates to create a view to the square, make the plates all different in plan?

Studio: Study Model

2007-01-22T18:53:00.000-08:00

The focus of study was to begin to insert programmatic elements into the perspectives we began with and create a study model. The idea that I began with was using abstract cubes to help create spaces within the store that could focus on consumers being able to interact with the specific components/applications in an Apple store. By beginning with this idea, and expanding it into a three dimensional model, several items began to appear. That there was a sense of the public infiltrating into the store, creating a very public space on the bottom floor, which in turn refocused individuals to the upper floors, where there is a complex network of spaces filling a void.

Studio: Coloring/Texturing Perspectives

2007-01-22T18:42:00.000-08:00

This assignment was focused on creating initial ideas of color and materiality for our perspectives. The studies for me were more of a diagrammatic and abstract exercise, trying to create ideas of how the different "zones" might relate to the sales area and how one might begin to create a path and ideas of circulation throughout the space.

Studio: Perspective Study

2007-01-22T18:23:00.000-08:00

Assignment 2 was focused on investigating our initial conceptual diagrams and creating a series of perspectives progressing through the conceptual space (no program was included in this study).

Studio: Initial Studies/Observations

2007-01-22T17:57:00.000-08:00

The first assignment in Boston for studio and theory was to investigate an existing Apple store, to observe the consumers and analyze the space. From our analysis and previous readings, we were to do a series of diagrams that begin to explain our intial findings. I began with a diagram of how Apple merchandises there stores and created two different ideas about how to create a more interactive area for the consumer, rather then a superficial interaction. This ideaology was based upon a quote I had read from one of there websites, that Apple wanted to create a shift in thinking from a "buyers experiance to an ownership experience" in there stores. Based on this, the first set looks at how the space maybe organized using mulitple areas, whereas the second set of diagrams look at organizing the area in one or two concentrated areas of intense interaction.

Apple Merchandising Diagram:

Conceptual Application Diagram: Multiple Areas of Interaction:Photo Collage of Applications on the Sales Floor:Conceptual Application Diagram: Singular Area of Interaction:Photo Collage of Applications on the Sales Floor:

Assignment 2

2007-01-11T18:07:00.000-08:00

The plan and section shows a view from the kitchen looking down the hall as it is constructed (possibly) currently, based on the photo.

The plan/section below would offer an oppurtunity to observe a role reversal of sorts. What happens if the threshold lost its ceiling, would it be a time of privacy still, and would adding a ceiling dramatically change the nature of the room.

The plan and section below were derived from the sketches above, the idea of the threshold having a ceiling and the rooms being open (for props and misc. camera and ligthing). The idea behind the primary (thick) threshold is that it offers the cast members an oppurtunity to reflect on the conflicts that have previously occured, where the secondary (thin) threshold prepares the cast members for conflict (calm before the storm).

Underhill Observation

2007-01-09T22:20:00.000-08:00

I couldnt help but think about the reading as I was looking at the new iPhone from apple (Chris has a link on his studio blog). The first thing I thought of was how cool the new phone looked and when and where I could get one(even though I cant afford it), just because it was the new cool gadget out. The reading pretty much hit that one right on the head, how males generally gravitate toward the cool technology gadgets. On a more serious note, the reading has been very interesting in how observation and client comfort/satisfaction goes a long way in the retail world, which should be a good model for designers in general.

Why We Buy: Paco Underhill

2007-01-09T15:33:00.000-08:00

Why We Buy has offered a lot of information thus far (about halfway through the book) that I never truly realized were oppurtunities or factors that effect the consumer. The power of observation and understanding the consumer are two elements in Underhills writing thus far that have been the main points of his science. Underhill developed a comprehensive checklist that is utilized in every job to help the observer become more concsious of the surroundings of the consumer and how that consumer interacts. By doing this Underhill is able to analyze and propose methods to improve profitablity for one rack of goods to the whole store. I think the key for an architect/designer is to be able to observe how people interact in there environment and be able to apply those methods and solutions into design work-refering back to his mentor, Holly Whyte. The other topic that seems to resonate throughout his writing so far is understanding the consumer. He gives several examples throughout the opening chapters, everything from the consumer to being comfortable (i.e. the butt graze or adding a chair) to being able to market products appropirately (i.e. the dog/cat toys being lowered for children). The importance of understanding a client proves to be the most important aspect of business relationship therefore stronger projects.
Interesting quote: "That teaches us something about rules-you have to either follow them or break them with gusto. Just ignoring a rule or bending it a little is usually the worst thing you can do." (Underhill 49).

Assignment 1

2007-01-07T17:23:00.000-08:00

Diagram 1: The diagramatic strategy for exploring the image of the kitchen was to analyaze it based on its strong horizontal and vertical elements. I simplified the elements into lines and extended those lines (dashed) to show two things. It directs the eye to the vanishing point both horizontally and vertically and it also sets up a rhythm within the diagram (both horizontal and vertical: a-b-a relationship).

Diagram 2: The image shows three distinct areas, a communal area with a couch, an intermediate area used for movement and the third being the kitchen. These elements are all defined by a set of boundaries. The first boundary/threshold exists between the couch/carpeted area and the area surrounding that space, the couch defines a communal area whereas the surrounding area is used for travel. The intermediate space between the communal area and the kitchen is defined with a wrapping effect, the wall wraps to the floor which engages the two knee wall elements and begins to wrap up the opposite wall. The kitchen is broken up through the use of the floor materaial and the furniture. There are also minor thresholds within the image, such as the door to the outdoor space, the mirrors and the fireplace.

Further investigations on thresholds:

The following diagrams look to further explore the idea of a threshold that "wraps" a space. The idea of the threshold is to act as a transition between two spaces, created by a penetration or change of material or architecture. The thresholds investigated appear to act as a buffer space between areas of semi-privacy (although there is no privacy) and areas of confrontation/conflict.

Two thresholds are exhibited in this image. The first is the doorway into an adjacent room, this is defined by the opening in the wall as well as the change of material. The second threshold, shows up at the division between the bedroom and the hallway (hallway acts as a threshold).

The hallway acts as a threshold into an area beyond, as well as having a penetration in the wall (not visible). The wrap appears to run the length of the hall and wrap vertically on the rear wall, which appears as a plane beyond, the walls of the hallway also create a wrapping effect that starts at the top of the wall runs down to the floor then wraps vertically on the adjacent wall, creating an overlapping effect.

There are two instances of the threshold wrapping, the floor of the bathroom extends into the hallway and appears to continue into the penetration, therefore, the threshold moves vertically up the door. The second threshold moves along the walls of the hallway and wrap down the floor and appears to extend into the plane/volume beyond.

Diagram 3: The strategy for the third image was set-up through the repetitious pattern within the photograph. The photo contains many modular units, the cushins, the pillows, firepit and the windows. The pillows reflect a 2-1 ratio with the seat cushions and the seat cushions then reflect a 2-1 ratio with the windows. The relationships become less evident as depth of the image increases.

Image 4: The last image was explored by looking at image as solids (grey) vs. voids (blue). Within the diagram, there are literal and implied interpertations. The literal can be seen through the "windows" to awning relationship while the green space becomes the implied. The void apprears this way, since the solids appear as three dimensional objects as opposed to a two-dimensional plane/surface. After further analysis, the space below the canopy on the far right reflects a voided space as well (although coded as a solid).

Constructing Inequality: Susan Bickford

2007-01-03T18:02:00.000-08:00

Is it solely the architects that are responsible for the inequalities that were described in the article? I would argue that it is not, there are many contributing professions/factors that are to blame; society, urban planners, money, politicians and numerous others.
Cookie cutter suburbs can be partially atributed with the development of transportation (i.e. highways, automobiles, etc). As highways and mass transit developed, it allowed the oppurtunity for a family to move away from the city and take up residence in these areas. With the mass migration to the suburbs, cities often were vacated after the workday. Thus hurting businesses that stayed open past 5pm. Many downtown areas often suffered from a lack of activities to attract people back to the downtown areas.
An example of a recent suburb that has attracted a lot of attention in this area is New Albany, Oh. This could be considered an example of an upscale "gated community." A wealthy businessman in Columbus, bought farm land and turned it into his own "Georgian Utopia." The community, is fairly new and is dominated by brick georgian homes, owned by many wealthy businessman who commute to and from work on the interstate. This community is self-sufficient, including a campus with an elementary, middle and high school, a local shopping area and a clubhouse and championship golf course where no doubt many deals are done.
In my opinion, the power currently resides in the hands of the wealthy developers who have the money and influences/power to educate the masses in what"good design citizenship" is. In many instances, it seems that the architect becomes an afterthought in the design stages, since, the design intent is usually determined before an architect is even chosen.

2007-01-02T17:59:00.000-08:00

My name is Joe Berardi. I am 27 years old and a graduate of the undergraduate architecture program at The Ohio State University. I currently live in Bexley Ohio, a small suburb east of Columbus. I live there with my fiancee, Missy, and three cats. A lot of our time has recently been spent remodeling our kitchen (33 weeks worth of work and injuries), which is now 99.9% complete.
Since graduating, I worked in a small firm that did various types of design work from residential projects to mixed use projects. For the past two years, I work in a commercial office, working on various types of projects from store design to a synagogue.
My interest in the program is that it allows me the opportunity to continue my education as well as continuing to work.